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While most students were having fun in the sun or relaxing on spring break, Sella Rega ’19 was training to break the Guinness World Record for most skips over a rope in 24 hours. The 23-year-old Vaughn College graduate tells her story of how she decided on the Vaughn airport management degree program and how her passion for fitness led her to breaking not one―but three―Guinness World Records last March.

Where it all began

Raised in Woodstock, New York, Rega grew up with two passions: fitness and aviation. Little did she know back then of how the two would come together. Throughout high school, Rega was active in sports but it wasn’t until after graduation that she pumped up her passion for fitness by taking the Les Mills BODYPUMP and BODYCOMBAT fitness classes. Candida Ellis, one of the instructors, was instrumental in igniting Rega’s interest in group fitness. “Candida encouraged me to sign up for a 10-week self-defense course taught by herself and the boxing trainer,” Rega explained. “It was there where I met my future boxing and jump rope coach, Chukie Ace.”

The challenge that started it all

In 2016, Rega was well on her way to earning her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from SUNY New Paltz. She was also honing her skills in boxing, where she learned “double-under” jumps, which are done during boxing warm-ups. One day, a friend of hers who had been training to break the Guinness World Record on the boxing speed bag was sick with the flu. Rega cheered him on and challenged him to work through it. “I wanted him to break the record so badly,” said Rega. “I told him if he breaks the record for the speed bag, then I would train to break the rope record.” The mutual respect for each other’s passion paid off as her friend broke the record. “He didn’t waste any time when he challenged me to jump for one hour straight,” Rega said fondly. “The rest, you can say, is history.”

Training for the record

Rega trained for two years to break the Guinness World Record. During the first year in 2017, she trained every chance she could. She would jump in between classes and at the gym every Friday after school. “I would jump while listening to music,” Rega explained. “I was not only focused on increasing my time, but on my form, endurance and mental conditioning.” She upped her game during the second year of training in 2018 when she jumped in her basement anywhere from eight to 20 hours in one session. “It became pretty intense,” Rega said. “I had to be sure to stay hydrated and maintain the right diet to get me through the training sessions.

Rega believes training mentally is just as important as training physically. When asked how she mentally prepared for breaking the record, she said it was all about visualization. “Looking back, I realize visualizing myself breaking the record was the greatest motivator of all,” Rega reflected. “Imagining how I would feel and what it would all be like helped me push through the training—even on the hardest days.”

Through it all, Rega said a significant part of her training resulted when she herself became a certified Les Mills BODYPUMP instructor. “Becoming an instructor was a crucial part of my physical training and a huge part of who I am today,” she said. “I believe the confidence and experience I’ve gained through teaching―combined with my passion for aviation―will be a winning combination for my future.”

Keeping an eye on her career

Life wasn’t all about breaking the record. After graduating from SUNY New Paltz with a bachelor of science degree in mathematics, Rega knew she needed to fulfill her passion for aviation. “My dream was to someday be an air traffic controller,” said Rega. “I just wasn’t sure how to make it happen.”

Discovering Vaughn

After doing some research, Rega discovered that Vaughn College offered a fast-track program for degree-holding students who wanted to further their education. Over two hours away, Rega knew it would be a challenge making it happen. “My life is about embracing a challenge,” Rega said. “Making this happen was an even greater one for me.” In fall 2018, she enrolled in the airport management program at Vaughn. For one year, she commuted twice a week to the College and stayed with family members who lived nearby. On the days when she wasn’t at school, Rega trained every chance she could to prepare for breaking the record.

The day Rega broke the record

Rega chose the week of spring break to attempt the challenge of breaking the Guinness World Record. Her high school in upstate New York was hosting the challenge. “I couldn’t have asked for a more nostalgic place to go for the record than my old high school gymnasium,” said Rega. The morning of March 29, 2019, she slept until noon and immediately began consuming calories for the big day.

There are several requirements that must be met before any attempt at breaking the record is made. Two witnesses must always be present. Rega said she had about 16 witnesses there who worked in two to four-hour shifts around the clock. There’s also a strict evidence protocol that always requires four cameras to be focused on the subject.

Rega began jumping promptly at 4 p.m. with groups of friends, family, fans and her coach, Ace, cheering her on into the night. By 2 a.m., Rega said she started to feel mentally fatigued, knowing she had already jumped for 10 hours and still had more than halfway to go. Aside from breaking the record, Rega said the most exciting time for her was at 3:50 a.m., when one of her friends screamed out, “Guess who just reached 100,000 jumps?” “It was at that moment that I knew I was going to break the record,” she remembers. At 11:54 a.m., after several breaks and blisters, Rega broke the Guinness World Record of 151,409 jumps in 19 hours and 54 minutes. She used the next four hours to set her own record of 168,394 jumps in the full 24-hour period. Little did she know at the time she also broke two other records for most skips over a rope within eight and 12 hours, setting them at 70,030 and 100,364, respectively. That’s three new Guinness World Records at one time! Way to go, Sella!

The record to beat:

Back to the books

Five months later, Rega graduated from Vaughn with her bachelor of science degree in airport management, along with the FAA-approved certified programs that qualified her to pursue her air traffic controller’s certification. “Graduation was bittersweet,” Rega said. “My grandma was one of my biggest fans. She witnessed me breaking the record and was alive on July 4, 2019 when I received official notification from Guinness,” Rega explained. “Sadly, she passed away in August and didn’t see me graduate, and never knew I broke the other two records.”

Silver lining

On October 22, 2019, Rega was notified that her records for most skips over a rope in eight and 12 hours were confirmed by Guinness. “I took this as a sign that my grandmother was watching over me that day. It just so happened to be her birthday.”

Learn more about earning a degree in aviation management from Vaughn College.

“Learn from your past and follow your dreams.” That is the sentiment that brought international student and freshman Alina Santander ’23 to Vaughn College this past September. At 20 years old, Santander is pursuing her dream in the field of mechatronic engineering with the hope of one day making a difference in solving the some of the world’s humanitarian and ecological issues.

Across the Americas

Born in Bolivia, South America, Santander grew up with a passion for science. In high school, she focused her studies around the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) program and majored in physics before transferring to Vaughn this year. “I always knew I wanted to be an engineer,” Santander said, “although my first dream was to be an astrophysicist. It didn’t take long before I realized my life goal is to create solutions to help solve the world’s problems through technology.”

Preparing for her future

Motivated to pursue her dreams, Santander applied to summer programs in other countries. When she was just 15 years old, she left home for the first time to study at a summer space camp in Germany that participated in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Human Exploration Rover Challenge. The goal of this international challenge was to build a Rover and drive it on a road with obstacles that simulate extraterrestrial soil. She began competing in 2016 and said her team prepared for almost one year to participate in the challenge. They travelled with their Rover from Bolivia to Huntsville, Alabama for the competition which is where they won the title. “It was an experience and opportunity that changed my life,” said Santander. “I hope to bring this idea to Vaughn where we can form a new club, introduce students to the Rover Challenge and participate in this exciting experience.”

To further prepare for her future, Santander managed to learn German and English, adding to her native Spanish and Russian languages. Having the experience of studying abroad and speaking foreign languages made for a smooth and seamless transition to Vaughn. “Being away from my family helped me to mature and learn responsibility at an early age,” Santander said.

Discovering a home at Vaughn

With a strong foundation in physics and STEM under her belt, Santander knew she wanted to study engineering abroad but discovered the process for international students was long and tedious. In 2017, she decided to get an early start and located an agency that could assist and guide her through the process while she continued her studies in Bolivia. Two years later, the agency ultimately matched her with Vaughn. She moved to New York a few short months ago and, with confidence and excitement, began her first semester as a mechatronic engineering major. “Leaving home wasn’t easy, even though I’ve done it before,” said Santander. “I have an amazing family who supports me and my dreams. I wouldn’t be here today without them.”

First semester experience

“Amazing” is just one of the words Santander used to describe her first semester at Vaughn. “I couldn’t wait to jump right into my courses,” she said excitedly. “I chose mechatronic engineering for its unique curriculum. Combining the fields of mechanical, electrical and computer engineering is the perfect blend for a well-rounded degree. I believe it’s where our future is headed, and I’m grateful to Vaughn for accepting me into their program.”

When asked about life outside of the classroom, she said there’s so much to love about Vaughn. Santander loves the small college atmosphere where she’s been able to meet new friends and nurture a close relationship with her instructors. To expand her experience, Santander said she joined the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) clubs. She explains how her courses in Bolivia, combined with her current curriculum at Vaughn, are the perfect foundation for sharing experiences with club members. “I feel good here,” said Santander. “I found a new home at Vaughn and living on campus makes everything easier.”

Looking to the future

Santander is focused on someday using technology to benefit humanity and nature. “I want to take technology to a new level to show how new methods can be used to make our lives easier and better,” she explained. “I know Vaughn is the right place for me to develop my ability to reach my goal and make it happen. For that I am grateful.”

Learn more about earning a degree in mechatronic engineering from Vaughn College.

Inspiration can come from many places. Vaughn senior, Angela Wright ’20 didn’t have to look farther than her own father, Jeff, to spark her passion to become an aircraft mechanic or aircraft maintenance technician (AMT), which is also known as an airframe and powerplant (A&P) technician.

Father knows best

Growing up on Long Island in the charming waterfront village of Northport, Wright was introduced to aviation at an early age. Her father worked for British Airways and he would bring Angela along on the job during “take your child to work day” throughout her childhood. “I’m adopted,” Wright stated proudly. “I loved going to work with my dad and seeing firsthand how the aviation industry operated,” she said. “I knew early on that I wanted to be a part of the mechanical side of aviation.” Her father’s passion for mechanics spilled over on the weekends when he would work on his cars in the driveway. “I was by my father’s side throughout my childhood, learning all about car mechanics. He inspired me to learn more about the field.”

Taking the first step

In high school, Wright enrolled in two automobile mechanics courses. Her excellent grades and passion for the field caught the attention of one of her instructors who recommended Vaughn College’s Aviation Training Institute (ATI) as a possible career path after graduation. “Up until that time, I wasn’t sure which direction to take for college. My instructor was instrumental in setting me on the right course by recommending Vaughn,” Wright explained.

Vaughn opens the door to opportunity

In the fall of 2017, Wright enrolled in the Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) program at Vaughn’s Aviation Training Institute. As a female, Wright said she is one of a growing number of women entering the field of airframe and powerplant technology. “It’s empowering to see more women entering a field that up until now was predominantly male,” she states. “We are leveling the playing field as more women are entering the industry. The job opportunities are there. It’s a great thing.”

Vaughn’s Aviation Training Institute making it happen

Working as an AMT comes with great responsibility. These specialized aircraft maintenance technicians work around the clock for the safety of travelers by ensuring every plane and train passes inspection before leaving for its destination. Wright explains how Vaughn’s ATI program is the perfect starting point where students can become a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-certified mechanic with an A&P rating to prepare for this in-demand, high-paying career of today. Did you know Boeing is forecasting the industry will need as many as 635,000 new aircraft maintenance technicians by 2036? And that’s on the aviation side alone.

Wright describes the ATI curriculum and her Vaughn professors as outstanding. She said the lectures and labs are the perfect balance to understanding the material and putting it into action. “I love my professors,” Wright said. “They are not only dedicated, but they go out of their way to ensure their students understand the material.” Living on campus has also been instrumental in her success at Vaughn. Wright explained how the convenience of being “close to home” plays a major role in staying focused and managing her time.

Looking to the future

Wright is on track to graduate May 2020 and plans on earning her A&P certificate over the summer. “I’m excited to start my career,” Wright said. “My parents have been extremely supportive in my career choice. My father and I share a special connection, a common thread. He’s a great man and I’ve learned so much from him over the years. I hope to make him proud.”

Imagine pursuing a career that is futureproof—a career that sets your goals and dreams into motion with job stability, transferability and longevity. Vaughn College is one of the country’s premier colleges that specializes in engineering, technology, management and aviation, where graduates have a competitive edge to obtain jobs in the industry’s hottest markets.

This month, we caught up with Thomas Dekenipp ’18, a 32-year old Vaughn engineering graduate who not only landed his dream mechanical engineering job but is also embracing fatherhood and family more than ever before.

Life after Vaughn

We first spoke to Dekenipp two years ago when he was a junior at Vaughn and celebrating his first Father’s Day with his girlfriend, Jaime, and their daughter, Harper. Since then, Dekenipp has graduated from Vaughn with a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in mechanical engineering technology with a focus on aeronautical and computer-aided design. On top of that, he also landed his dream job at CPI Aerostructures, Inc. (CPI Aero), an aerospace and defense contractor headquartered in Edgewood, New York on Long Island.

As a proud and dedicated family man, Dekenipp was excited to share the news that he and Jaime welcomed their son, Milo, 14 months ago and just this past April bought their first home, which is located just minutes from his place of employment. “My life couldn’t be any more complete,” Dekenipp said humbly. “I’m blessed with how everything is falling into place.”

A futureproof career in mechanical engineering

Dekenipp is no stranger to discipline and hard work. Prior to applying to the engineering program at Vaughn in 2015, he worked six years as a helicopter mechanic in the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division, where he completed two tours in Afghanistan and worked an additional 18 months as a contractor. It was this combined passion for aeronautics and mechanics that led him to Vaughn and helped land his current position as a manufacturing engineer at CPI Aero.

“At CPI Aero, I’m involved with making parts for Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters using all the skills I learned at Vaughn,” Dekenipp explained. “The experience is truly amazing. I learn something new every day. It’s hard work but worth every minute.” Working as a manufacturing engineer has many responsibilities, which include maintaining the manufacturing and sustainability of the design and building processes, managing budgets and keeping up with client needs.

When asked about his futureproof career, Dekenipp answered, “Vaughn not only keeps their finger on the pulse of today’s technology trends but is committed to staying engaged with connections to ensure their students’ future success.”

Sage advice

As a seasoned military and family man, Dekenipp encourages others to follow their dreams and passions. After his military career, he said Vaughn gave him the opportunity to take his life to the next level.

“There’s not enough I can say about Vaughn, its faculty and the entire experience,” said Dekenipp. “Their excellent reputation, curriculum and guidance are a winning combination for any serious student.”

Dekenipp explained how Vaughn offers a laser-focused curriculum in specific fields of study. When asked if there was a specific skill that he gained from his education at Vaughn, Dekenipp replied: “The computer animated design courses fully prepared me for the job I have today.” He then went on to state: “I graduated with all the tools I needed for the job, along with the confidence and comfort factor to be successful. It was a seamless transition from the classroom to the job site.”

Before we wrapped up, Dekenipp spoke about his new home, family and the importance of traditions. “We bought our first dining room table for the new house,” he said proudly. “Growing up, my family always gathered around the table for meals,” he recalled. “We now have a table for family time. While my career and job outlook are futureproof and the catalyst for providing for my family, spending time with them is securing my futureproof formula for life.”

Learn more about earning a degree in engineering and technology.

In honor of Women’s History Month, we are celebrating another hardworking female student who is paving her own path at Vaughn College. Strong family ties and a commitment to excellence have set Alexa Cruz ’22, an aircraft operations major, on a trajectory of success as she embraces her freshmen year at Vaughn College to one day become a commercial airline pilot.

Dreaming big

As an only child growing up in Pompton Lakes, New Jersey, Cruz said she was raised to dream big. Throughout grade school and high school, she always set high standards for herself and maintained exceptional grades. “As an Asian-American, people tend to stereotype you as a high achiever,” Cruz explained. “I never bought into that notion. My drive comes from within, knowing that I don’t ever want to look back on my life and have regrets.” From a young age, she started the steps to becoming a commercial airline pilot.

Out of the blue

Cruz explained how her parents are her greatest influences in her life. Becoming a pilot was never on her radar until she reflected on their jet-setting careers as shoe designers that she realized she wanted to experience the world firsthand. “There’s so much beauty in the world,” Cruz said. “I always enjoyed hearing my parent’s stories, but I decided I didn’t want to live through other people’s experiences. I want to live it and experience it for myself. It was then that I decided I wanted to become a pilot and travel the world.”

Vaughn was the answer

During her senior year in high school, Cruz was at the point of choosing a college. She knew Vaughn was the one and only school for her. “Vaughn has it all,” Cruz said. “Their aircraft operations program was the perfect fit to fulfill my dream of becoming a pilot, and their reputation is second to none. They exceeded all my expectations.” Vaughn’s wide variety of college programs secured her decision to attend.

Cruz expressed her belief that although the aviation field has been a male-dominated field in the past, women should not be discouraged to set their sights on the skies. “I’m proud to be a female Vaughn student,” Cruz said. “The college offers a diverse environment where both men and women can feel confident that they are offered an equal opportunity in all fields of study.”

Leveling the playing field

We all have our passions. For Cruz, it’s the game of basketball. From the age of 10, she has been playing the sport on school and travel teams, but never knew playing a college sport would be a part of her experience with Vaughn. “Playing basketball teaches you to be both a leader and a team player,” said Cruz. “It’s been the cornerstone of my life, guiding me to balance life and work while grounding me in the mindset to succeed.” Last summer, Cruz was recruited by Vaughn’s athletic department to play basketball for the college. “I never imagined I would play college basketball,” Cruz said humbly. “It’s more than I ever dreamed of and is just what I needed to balance out my education here at Vaughn. I get to experience the best of both worlds.” It has always been Vaughn’s mission to provide opportunities for students to get involved in the College’s athletic programs, campus activities and professional development in their respective fields.

Life at Vaughn

As a freshman in her second semester, Cruz said her favorite part of being a Vaughn student is her involvement with an industry-driven community that’s helping to accomplish her goal of becoming a pilot. “Living on campus is one of the best decisions I made to making the most of my experience at Vaughn,” Cruz said. “Just being here and experiencing college life is rewarding, knowing I’m working hard toward my dream.” Cruz joined the Women in Aviation Club on campus and said being a member is a great way to network and connect with older students who are making things happen. Vaughn’s college network allows students to get hands-on experience with industry professionals during their time on campus. “It’s inspiring to see how our peers are advancing their careers,” explained Cruz. “It drives me even harder, knowing I’m living my dream at Vaughn.”

Most Influential Woman in Her Life

Because it is Women’s History Month, we asked Cruz if there is a woman who has been influential in her life?

“Hands down, my mom is the most influential person in my life,” she stated without hesitation. “She not only works hard for our family, but she will go out of her way to help others without thinking twice about it. She gives without ever expecting anything in return. She has the biggest and most generous heart and I’m proud to call her my mom.” Cruz said her mom is her best friend, and on days when she’s feeling stressed or overwhelmed with school, she replays her mom’s words in her head to get her through her day: “I love you to the moon and back.”

“My dreams of becoming a commercial airline pilot may not be taking me to the moon, but who ever thought my mom’s words would someday put me on a journey to the skies?”

Have you ever dreamed about becoming a pilot? If you are wondering how to become a pilot as your future career, register for our Open House on Saturday, April 13 to learn more about taking your dreams to the skies. Let Vaughn help you achieve your dreams of earning a commercial pilot’s license.

Also, check out the insights of Kirei Watson ’18on landing her dream job as a mechanical design engineer.

With 2019 coming to an end, Kirei Watson ’18, a recent Vaughn College graduate, is excited to begin her new career as a mechanical design engineer at Collins Aerospace, and says her experience at Vaughn gave her the confidence and knowledge to approach her future head on. Read more to learn how Watson landed her dream job, as well as her advice and tips on how you can, too.

Learning what it takes

In December 2017, Watson graduated from Vaughn with a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering technology: aeronautical. She explains that although it’s important to keep your focus on your classes, it’s equally important to branch off and go beyond the classroom by joining clubs to enhance your passion and help further your career after graduation. Watson was involved with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), and said she even found time to participate in some outside events sponsored by the Society of Women Engineers (SWE).

“Joining the right engineering clubs at Vaughn played an instrumental role in landing my current job,” Watson said. “It was during my trip to the SHPE annual conference, sponsored by Vaughn, that I received my big break.” Watson, who was featured in Vaughn’s 2017 Gala video, shares further insight on how students can set themselves on the right path to success.

Importance of internships

During the summer of 2018, Watson held an internship position where she worked as a manufacturing engineer at Harris Corporation, a defense contractor and information technology services provider. “I can’t stress enough how the internship at Harris Corporation helped me determine the type of company I wanted to work for in the future,” Watson stated. “I learned the importance of networking and the contrast between the academic aspect of engineering and the practical or professional approach.” Watson said she can’t emphasize enough how this internship opened her eyes to her future path, as it taught her the importance of being on a team focused on contributing something new and innovative to society.

Preparing early

Ask any college graduate and they’ll tell you: A job isn’t handed to you along with your diploma. The reality is it takes a lot of homework (sorry, but it’s true), extensive job searches, perseverance and guts to go out and secure a job in one’s chosen field. Take advantage of the career services department’s offerings including interview preparation, résumé writing and job search skills. Watson’s advice is to start planning now for your future. “It’s never too early to learn how to professionally prepare yourself for a corporate setting,” said Watson. “Not only are internships a great way to get experience in your field, but don’t underestimate the wisdom of the Vaughn faculty. My mentors were instrumental in helping me transition from an academic environment to a professional one. I will be forever grateful to them.”

Kicking off her new career

Watson will begin her new position as mechanical design engineer with heat exchangers this month. She explains how this new position is different than her internship position as a design engineer because it incorporates additive manufacturing (3D printing). Additionally, she said this new department within the company opens doors for growth and innovation. “I’m excited about this position since it will enable me to contribute to and discover the many possibilities with additive manufacturing in regard to aerospace,” Watson said. “I’m thrilled to begin this next journey in my life, and it’s a good feeling to know Vaughn was the cornerstone to getting me here.”

Are you looking for a new career path? Schedule a visit and find out how a futureproof Vaughn education can get you on the path toward success.

Reaching for the stars took on a whole new meaning for Vaughn College alumna Leonie Barden ’07, a systems engineer for The Boeing Company at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Pursuing her passion

Growing up in New York City, Barden knew from an early age she had a passion for airplanes. This passion was met with challenges since she was surrounded by a family of scientists who worked in the medical field. Raised by her Jamaican single mother, Barden said she travelled often throughout her childhood and visited family in Jamaica.

She recalls a time when her mother asked her, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

Barden replied, “Mom, I want to be a stewardess.” Barden looks back on that moment fondly as she’s come a long way since then having forged ahead in the industry as a mechanical engineer. It should be noted, that this success wasn’t without sacrifice, dedication and a large helping of courage.

Finding Vaughn

After high school, Barden attended Adelphi University for a short time and then enrolled in a local community college. After strong test scores proved she had an aptitude for science and math, Barden said her guidance counselor encouraged her to pursue her passion for flight.

“I knew I wanted to do something technical,” Barden said. “While my friends were taking business courses, I knew my path was taking a different direction. My counselor was instrumental in guiding me to find my destiny.”

She transferred to Vaughn College, where she enrolled in the aeronautical engineering technology Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program. Upon earning her associate degree, Barden became focused on pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

At that time, Vaughn was seeking accreditation and thus transitioned to an ABET-accredited degree program. During that time, Barden worked full-time as a computer technician. She returned to Vaughn in 2004 on a part-time basis where she took night classes. The time and work paid off as Barden earned her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology: aeronautical and computer-aided design.in 2007.

Living the dream

Upon graduation, Barden was committed to finding her dream job. She applied to The Boeing Company and in April 2008 received a job offer at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida as a systems engineer. “It was a big move for me, especially leaving my current job at the time, but I knew I had to take the chance,” Barden said. “I’ve always been fascinated by airplanes and this was my chance to live my dream.”

Reaching for the stars

For the past 10 years, Barden has been working as a systems engineer where she manufactures hardware for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) space exploration programs which include the International Space Station (ISS) and Commercial Crew Transportation System. “Every day is different and presents a new set of challenges,” she explained. “My job is to take projects from the cradle to the grave, supporting the full life cycle of a product – from design to manufacturing and system retirement.”

Barden’s most recent project has been to work on Boeing’s (Crew Space Transportation CST-100 Starliner) program, the latest spacecraft design to transport crew to the International Space Station and low-Earth orbit. “It’s humbling and overwhelming to be a part of something that impacts mankind on this level,” said Barden. “All eyes of the world are on space travel. The entire experience makes me feel special. It’s a magical moment to watch a rocket launch and to know I had a part in making it happen.”

Vaughn’s impact on her career

Reflecting on her time at Vaughn, Barden said the College gave her a foundation to use the knowledge she acquired for critical thinking.

“You may not apply all or any of the formulas and theorems that you study so hard to understand in your daily tasks,” Barden stated. “However, understanding the concepts is critical to understanding the full spectrum of your field. You may not use it daily but at some point, you’ll tap into your knowledge to get the job done.”

When asked what motivated her to where she is today, Barden replied, “Determination and perseverance. Never give up on your dream. I reached for the stars, never imagining my work would literally make it there.”

Vaughn’s fall Open House is scheduled for Saturday, November 10 and Saturday, November 17 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. It’s a fun and informative day where interested students, along with their families, can meet with faculty and staff to ask questions and tour the campus.

Register today!

We all want to love what we do but turning a dream into a reality isn’t always simple. For 24 year-old Desiree Aguilar ’20, enrolling in the Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) program at Vaughn College’s Aviation Training Institute in May was the turning point to launching her dream career.

Breaking Barriers

Aguilar has always loved working with her hands. She recalls fond memories of growing up in Brooklyn, New York, where she would help her grandfather paint, work on cars, and do all sorts of fixing up around the house. “My grandfather encouraged me as a young girl that I could do anything I wanted in life―even work in male-dominated fields like mechanics,” said Aguilar. “He gave me the confidence to look past the stereotypes.”

Switching Gears

After graduating from high school, Aguilar worked for the next six years as a paralegal at a local law firm and took classes at a community college, where she studied psychology. During that time, she gave birth to her daughter, Divine. “I realized after becoming a mother that I needed to support myself and my daughter the best way I knew how,” Aguilar said. “And that way is working with my hands.”

Hands-on Experience

Aguilar was drawn to Vaughn’s Aviation Training Institute. “It was the perfect fit for my passion to work with my hands and my love of aviation,” Aguilar stated. She dove right into the program—hands first—and is loving every minute. Aguilar appreciates the one-on-one attention in the small class setting and the boundless industry knowledge of her experienced faculty. “The instructors at Vaughn have real-world experience and make me feel comfortable and right at home.” When it comes to working in the lab, she said the hands-on experience is an invaluable part of the program. “It may have taken me a few years to get here but now that I’m working toward earning my degree, the sky’s the limit on where I can go.”

Eyes on the Prize

Aguilar plans on graduating with her AOS degree in the fall of 2020, which is when she will also receive her Airframe and Powerplant Certificate. Her career goal is to work for a commercial airline at John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport as an aviation maintenance technician. “My dream is to repair airplanes and handle the inspections,” Aguilar stated. “The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) protocol is a very strict process and one that I will take very seriously. You can’t wing it!”

Opening Doors of Opportunity

Aguilar is grateful to her family who cares for her two-year old daughter while she’s in school, and to Vaughn for offering a program and a future she had only dreamed of before. “It’s a challenge balancing school and being a mom,” Aguilar said humbly. “I’m pursuing my dream, so my daughter can someday look up to me and know that I did it all for her,” said Aguilar. “Just as my grandfather encouraged me, I want to instill the same in Divine, so she can live her own dream.”

Thousands of aircraft take off and land every day, but did you ever wonder what it takes to keep them properly maintained and flying safely?

Aviation Maintenance Technician Day is May 24―a day when we recognize both the men and women who work behind the scenes. Additionally, we honor an early pioneer named Charles Edward Taylor, who made all of this happen.

History of Aviation Maintenance Technician Day

As history serves us, the Wright Brothers were the first aviation pioneers to make the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered aircraft. But did you know it was a man named Charles Edward Taylor who built the engine used to power the plane? To honor his achievement, Taylor’s birthday was selected to mark Aviation Maintenance Technician Day as a national day of recognition for aviation maintenance professionals. Aviation Maintenance Technician Day is currently observed by 45 states in the United States.

Job Outlook

According to the United States Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians have been projected to grow five percent from 2016 to 2026, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. And according to Boeing, the industry will need as many as 648,000 new technicians by 2036. In May 2017, the median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $61,020. The time couldn’t be better to pursue a career in this field.

What it Takes to Become an Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT)

Working as an AMT―also known as airframe and powerplant technician―is a demanding career. It is a highly skilled job that requires licensing by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure candidates have mastered a broad range of industry-related knowledge and skills. AMTs perform routine maintenance on aircrafts and look for parts that need to be repaired or replaced, including: brakes, wheels, electrical systems and wings. Candidates who pursue a career as an AMT must fulfill a few of the following requirements:

• Completion of 1,900 hours of class time and hands-on training before taking the licensing exam
• Being able to work on different engine systems from varying manufacturers, along with the ability to apply knowledge learned from manuals for troubleshooting
• Must be skilled in mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, composite and sheet metal applications

Skills and Responsibilities

For every flight that lands in the United States, there is a crew of AMTs who must inspect the plane and sign off on each protocol to ensure every facet of its mechanics is working properly and efficiently. Here are some of the skills and responsibilities required to do the job:

Skills and Requirements:

• Be licensed by the FAA
• Must be conscientious and thorough
• Adhere to demanding schedules
• Work well under pressure

Responsibilities:

• Address immediate problems and resolve them before takeoff, or defer problem and ground flight for later repair
• Use full knowledge of industry standards and apply troubleshooting skills
• Sign off on all protocols to ensure a plane is safe to fly

Opportunity for Growth

AMTs working in their field have the opportunity to move up the ladder within their company. Here is a snapshot of the different types of jobs in the field:

• AMT―performs routine maintenance and repairs
• Lead technician―distributes, assigns and monitors work
• Instructor―teaches general familiarization classes for the type of aircraft that airlines use along with classes on aircraft systems, procedures, safety and compliance
• Aircraft Maintenance Planner―handles environmental studies, oversees land use planning, and participates in business development activities
• Maintenance controller―works in a central location to help troubleshoot problems on the ground
• Maintenance engineer―modifies aircraft

Vaughn Expert Weighs In

Fred Parham, associate director at Vaughn College’s Aviation Training Institute (ATI), has over 30 years of experience in the aviation maintenance field. Parham said the opportunities for AMTs have never been better than they are today. “Now is a great time to pursue a career in the field of aviation mechanics,” Parham said. “No two days are ever the same. It’s a serious job with great responsibility, but the rewards are endless.”

Vaughn College Can Get You There

Vaughn College’s ATI can prepare you for a high paying career as a certified airframe and powerplant technician in as little as 16 months. To learn more this exciting opportunity, register for our Aviation Maintenance Information Sessions on June 13.

Happy Aviation Maintenance Technician Day, and Happy Birthday to Charles Edward Taylor!